The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia began its extraordinary offering of educational tours with our landmark trip to the People's Republic of China in 1977, when we were among the first westerners to enter this fascinating country. Since then, the Council has designed frequent trips around the globe, visiting such diverse locations as Vietnam, Egypt, the Netherlands, Morocco, Antarctica, and Cuba, plus locations like the Pacific Northwest and the Antebellum South here in the U.S. The trips the Council sponsors offer all the highlights of touring plus access to political leaders and other local experts who give behind the scenes views and briefings that make our trips special and unique.

January 12 - 15 – Mexico Seminar with Craig Snyder - On this special mission to Mexico we will explore the state of the U.S. - Mexico relationship through the challenges and implications of increased social and economic pressures. This special seminar will include meetings with former Mexican President Vicente Fox and Mrs. Marta Fox. You will also attend an exclusive musical performance by the School Petit Performance, and have a specially arranged visit to the Corralejo Tequila Hacienda. $2,290 per person plus airfare.

January 19 - February 10 - A President's Journey Around the World- Join Ambassador Mark Johnson on a highly anticipated around-the-world journey. This new itinerary, personally hosted by Shelley Cline—president of our tour partner TCS World Travel—weaves together some of the world’s most fascinating cities and enduring cultures as well as a variety of threatened natural wonders as it circumnavigates the globe. Enjoy personalized service throughout the journey and stay at some of the world’s finest accommodations. Wait List Only.

February 9 - 19 – Passage Through the Panama Canal and Costa Rica - A spectacular nine-day journey from the Costa Rican rainforest through the mighty locks of the Panama Canal. Cruise aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star, all-Suite M.V. STAR BREEZE toexperience a daylight passage through the canal and call at remote island paradises. Join Ambassador Barbara Stephenson, former Ambassador to Panama, on this small ship cruise. From $4,995 per person plus airfare - a savings of $1,000!

February 18 - March 5 - Southern Africawith Dr. Carla Thorson - Discover the remarkable beauty and vibrant culture of South Africa and Zimbabwe as you explore modern cities, track wildlife on safari and explore the natural wonder of Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. Talks by local experts, excursions with expert guides and safari game drives combine to make this the travel experience of a lifetime. From $7,245 per person plus airfare - a savings of $250 if you book by August 15!Space is going fast!

March 10 - 31 - Exploring Australia & New Zealand with Dr. Jerry Leach - Small group touring and the Lands Down Under add up to a perfect combination as we travel from Australia’s spectacular Great Barrier Reef to the storied Outback and Ayers Rock to sophisticated Sydney; from New Zealand’s towering Mt. Cook and breathtaking Milford Sound to high-spirited Queenstown and Auckland. Several "meet-the-people" opportunities throughout. $9,634 including air from Los Angeles (other gateways available).

March 31 – April 12 – Inside Japan - Urban and pastoral highlights of Tokyo, Kyoto, and magnificent Mt. Fuji. Travel off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama, Kanazawa, and Nara. Embassy briefing and other special events. Discover Hiroshima on an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension. $6,841 including air from Los Angeles (other gateways available).

March 31 – April 7 – On the Road to Freedom: Understanding the Civil Rights Movement: A Family-Friendly Program- Our carefully designed program returns to Memphis on the 50th year anniversary of the assassination of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., to partake in the events commemorating his legacy. From Selma to Little Rock High School, we will learn the story of the civil rights movement framed within the histories of the music and cuisine of the South. $3,990 per person based on double occupancy. Triple and Quadruple occupancy options available.

April 6 - 19 - Inside Iran with Dr. Ann Lesch - Travel to golden deserts, glittering canals of water, clay-baked caravanserais and a horizon pierced by turquoise minarets. Explore this complex land from Tehran to Shiraz. Marvel at ancient Persian civilization at Persepolis, and experience the warmth of the Iranian people.

April 18 – 26 – River Life Along the Dutch Waterways - Cruise for seven nights in Holland and Flanders aboard an exclusively chartered, deluxe AMADEUS small river ship when the picturesque Dutch tulip fields are in bloom. Meet local residents during the exclusive RIVER LIFE FORUM. Tour the Kröller-Müller Museum. Visit Amsterdam, Bruges, Hoorn, Maastricht, Antwerp and Keukenhof Gardens. Amsterdam Pre-Cruise Option and The Hague, Delft and Kinderdijk Post-Cruise Option. No single supplement. From $2,995 per person plus airfare - a savings of $1,000 if you book by September 19!

April 30 - May 9 – European Coastal Civilizations: Lisbon to London with Dr. Pamela Zeiser - This eight-night cruise along coastal Portugal, Spain, France and England aboard the Five-Star M.S. LE BORÉAL features a memorable cruise up the River Thames and a visit to the beaches of Normandy with special guest speaker Dwight D. Eisenhower II. From $5,195 per person plus airfare - a savings of $1,000 if you book by September 22! This tour will sell out fast!

May 5 -19 – Dynasties of China and Tibet featuring a Yangtze River Cruise with Kay Maxwell - Experience the best of China and Tibet featuring a three-night cruise along the fabled Yangtze River and Five-Star accommodations in Beijing, Xi’an, Lhasa and Shanghai. Visit the Three Gorges Dam, Beijing’s Forbidden City, the Great Wall, Xi’an’s Terra Cotta Warriors and Lhasa’s magnificent Potala Palace. Enjoy meeting the fascinating people of China and the friendly people of Tibet. From $6,745 per person plus airfare - a savings of $1,000 if you book by October 12!

May 29 – June 6 – Tuscany with Patrick Ryan – Tuscany’s rolling knolls and fertile valleys have attracted artists, writers and travelers for centuries. Discover this remarkable landscape for yourself during a seven-night journey. You will call a charming villa in Cortona home, and enjoy excursions to Renaissance villages, beloved Florence, and a family-owned winery. Along the way you will stroll charming piazzas, explore Etruscan treasures, and delight in regional flavors. $3,340 per person - a savings of $500 if you book by July 25!

June 5 - 16 – Riches of the Emerald Isle with Denise Bala - Experience the finest in Irish culture during stays in Ennis, Killarney, Mallow and Dublin. Explore lively Galway, traverse the Burren landscape and admire the resplendent Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy Blarney Castle and Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College. This ten-night, small-group experience features first-class hotels, fascinating insights from local guides and experts.

June 27 - July 5 – Odysseys of Ancient Civilizations: Adriatic and Aegean Seas - Join Norm Olsen, Retired Senior U.S. Foreign Service Officer, as he leads our wonderful cruise from Venice along the stunning Dalmatian coast to Athens for seven nights aboard the exclusively chartered, Five-Star, small ship M.S. LE LYRIAL. Visit five countries and six UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy an exclusive COASTAL LIFE FORUM with local residents and a folk music performance. From $4,495 per person plus airfare.

July 11 - 29 – Cruise the Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel with Jim Falk - Discover the Rhine River on an enchanting cruise through Holland, Germany and France to visit Amsterdam, Cologne, Strasbourg, the Rhine Valley and more. Learn about the region’s history and culture.

July 14 - 22 – Poland & Moscow Seminar with Craig Snyder - Join an in-depth seminar exploring the relationship between Russia and its near neighbor, Poland. Visit both these nations, discovering their historical sites, educational institutions, and heartbreaking monuments, as well as hearing expert lecturers, and interacting with the people of the two interconnected countries.

July 20 – 28 – Town & Country Life in Cambridge, Oxford & Cotswolds featuring Blenheim Palace - Discover the true character of England’s town and country life during this extraordinary small-group itinerary featuring the university towns of Oxford and Cambridge and the charming Cotswolds. Call on Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill; visit “Downton Abbey”. Anna Berry, Executive Director of the World Affairs Council of New Hampshire will share information on her experience living in London.From $3,995 per person plus airfare.

July 25 – August 2 – Circumnavigation of Iceland - Unearth Iceland on this seven-night circumnavigation aboard the Five-Star, small ship M.V. STAR PRIDE. See ancient Viking ruins and glittering glaciers atop simmering volcanoes. Cross the Arctic Circle and cruise along Surtsey. Included round-trip air from select cities. From $5,995 per person.

August 27 - 31 - Treasures of Ecuador & the Amazon - Arrive in Quito and attend a U.S. Embassy briefing before visiting the impressive "Middle of the World" monument at the Equator, which marks latitude 0º. Transfer to your Amazon Lodge overlooking the river and enjoy a hike along the flourishing nature trail. Visit with a local Quechua family - learn about their tribal customs and hear stories of everyday Amazonian life. Derrick Olsen, President of the World Affairs Council of Oregon, will lead this tour and bring his experience of working in Latin America to the program.

September 11 – 25 – Himalayan Kingdoms: Nepal & Bhutan with Megan Torrey - An exhilarating journey to two distant and devout lands where Himalayan scenery casts an awe-inspiring spell. Experience these nations’ cultural riches, exquisite beauty, and profound spirituality as you discover Nepal’s storied Kathmandu Valley and explore Bhutan from Thimphu to Punakha and the legendary Tiger’s Nest monastery. Several special briefings will be added to final itinerary $5,747 including air from New York (other gateways available).

September 15 - 26 – Romance of the Douro River with Dixie Anderson: land and cruise featuring Lisbon, Porto and the Alto Douro Wine Region - Explore the remarkable cities and towns of Portugal on this enriching journey that showcases the country’s history and heritage. Spend three nights in Lisbon, the city that launched many of the great Age of Discovery expeditions. Cruise the Douro River for seven nights aboard an exclusively chartered ship that takes you through Portugal’s famous port-producing region. From $3,595 per person plus airfare. No single supplement.

September 27 - October 20 - Around the World by private jet - Our classic private jet journey offers a life list of destinations to some of the world's most iconic places, including Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal, the Great Barrier Reef and safari in the Serengeti Plain. By combining these destinations into one seamless, elegant trip, we create a 24-day itinerary that is truly an opportunity of a lifetime.

October 6 -14 – Town and Country Life of Languedoc with Joyce Davis - Experience the South of France for nine days in the unspoiled provinces of Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées dotted with traditional villages and Cathar fortresses. Visit Carcassonne and cruise the Canal du Midi, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Stay in the historic HOTEL MERCURE ALBI BASTIDES and the stylish CHÂTEAU DE FLOURE. Exclusive TOWN & COUNTRY LIFE FORUM with local residents. From $3795 per person plus airfare.

October 4 -16 - Botswana with Mimi Gregory- Immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals on this remarkable journey to Botswana. Devote time to learning the intricacies of the Botswanan government. Jet to your next destination in light aircraft, with unbeatable birdseye views of the vistas below. Take in the spectacular view over the Okavango; a massive wetland wilderness of looping channels, islands forested with palms, and wide grassy floodplains that you'll explore on foot, in open 4x4 safari vehicles, and floating along the channels in authentic mokoro canoes in search of elephant and lion, leopard and Pel’s Fishing Owl. Several meet-the-people opportunities throughout. $7,995 per person plus airfare.

October – Inside New York

November 5 -12 - Cuba featuring 13th Annual Art Biennial

November 9 - 18 –India Seminar with Craig Snyder- Join a carefully designed program which focuses on learning first-hand about a wide variety of aspects of life in India. Begin in Delhi and meet with a journalist from the Times of India. Visit the office of Balaknama, a monthly newsletter, run for and by street children, and interact with prominent advocates for women’s rights and prison reforms. Attend a briefing at the U.S. Embassy. Visit the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT Bangalore) one of the premier national graduate school in the country. In Mumbai stop at the Gandhi Museum and Research Institute to meet with a Department Head from their Political Science sector. $5,995 per person plus airfare.

February 20 – March 5, Mysteries of Myanmar: Begin in Yangon and fly to Bagan. Travel to Mandalay and Inle Lake. L.J. Stambuk will facilitate briefings with the U.S. Ambassador and with Myanmar experts on this nascent democracy. Optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension to Angkor Wat, Cambodia. $5,898 including air from NY!

February 22 – March 2, Island Life of Cuba: In addition to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Havana, visit Matanzas, Santa Clara, Guanabacoa, Regla and Pinar del Río. Accompanied by experienced Cuban hosts, explore the political history, culture, art, language and cuisine of daily Cuban life. From $5,295 including charter air round-trip Miami/Havana. Book by October 31 and save $500 per person!

March 6 - 14, 2015, Inside Tunisia: Join Craig Snyder, President & CEO World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, to explore Tunisia's road to democracy post-Arab Spring through a series of substantive briefings. Archaeological sightseeing including Carthage and Bardo Museum; El Jem’s Roman amphitheater; and Kairouan’s 7th century Great Mosque. Dougga and Bulia Regia optional extension. $3,750 per person plus airfare.

March 8 – 21, Bangkok to Bali: Discover Bangkok and visit Wat Po. Cruise the Chao Phraya River. Then, travel for three nights aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express Train with a daily excursion off the train. Explore lively Singapore before flying to Bali. Join popular Council leader, Denise Bala, who will arrange a U.S. Embassy. From $6,545 per person plus airfare. Book by November 11 and save $250 per person!

April 6 - 20; May 18 - June 1; or October 5 - 19, Inside Iran: Begin in Tehran, fly to Kerman, continue to Yazd, Shiraz and end in Isfahan. Throughout this program a highlight will be the Iranian people you will meet on your journey and a series of briefings conducted by your Council leader with experts on the contemporary issues of the day. Three departures quickly sold out in 2014!

April 8 – 26, China and Tibet and the Yangtze River: On this distinctive journey start in Beijing and then travel to Xian and Lhasa. Embark on a Yangtze River cruise before ending in Shanghai. Many “meet the people” opportunities and a Council leader will coordinate a briefing at the U.S. Embassy. Optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension in Shanghai.

April 23 – May 1, European Coastal Civilizations with David Eisenhower: Cruise aboard the 200-guest M.S. LE BORÉAL along the coasts of Portugal, Spain, France and Guernsey. David Eisenhower, grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, will share his personal insights during an onboard lecture and accompany you to the beaches of Normandy. Pre-Cruise Option in Lisbon and Post-Cruise Option in Paris and Giverny. From $4,995 per person plus airfare. Book by September 30 and save $1,000 per person!

May 3 – 14, Burgundy and Provence River cruise: During this delightful 12-day journey, a pageant of wine country and picturesque villages entices you on a course through the heart of la belle France. Begin in Monte Carlo before transferring to Arles to board the 138-guest Avalon Scenery. Sail to Avignon, Viviers, Lyon, and Beaune before transferring to your hotel in Paris. Enjoy educational experiences at every stop with Council Leader, Anna Berry. From $3,995 per person plus airfare. Book by November 14 and receive a free expedition library.

May 15 – 23, Bilbao and Madrid: Northern Spain is a must-see destination with arguably the finest food in Spain and world class museums. Start in Bilbao and then drive to the hills of Roja. Spend three days in Madrid to explore not only its legendary museums, plazas, and palaces, but also to experience the city’s diplomatic world. Leading this tour will be Ambassador Heather Hodges.

May 19 – 29, Life Along the Elbe River: Begin with two hotel nights in Berlin where special council briefings will be added. Cruise for seven nights aboard the 88-guest M.S. SWISS RUBY. Explore the Elbe River Valley, from Germany’s “Saxon Switzerland” to Baroque palaces of Dresden and the historic Old Town of Prague. Meet local residents for a personal perspective of the region’s modern life. Dr. Pamela Zeiser will lecture on the cruise. Post-Cruise Option in Prague. Book by November 17 and save $1,000 per person!

June 4 – 13, Baltics Sea Cruise: Experience the Baltic States, on this six-country, eight-night cruise aboard the 200-guest M.S. LE BORÉAL. Hear a keynote presentation by former President of Poland Lech Walesa. On board, and lecturing during the full cruise, will be Dr. Sergei N. Khrushchev, a professor at Brown University and son of Nikita Khrushchev and World Affairs Council of Philadelphia President & CEO, Craig Snyder, who will discuss current political issues of the Baltic states. Begin in Copenhagen and disembark in Stockholm. Norway Pre- Cruise and Stockholm Post-Cruise Options. From $5,995 per person plus airfare. Book by December 4 and save $1,000 per person!

June 11 – 26, Norwegian Splendor: From Copenhagen and Oslo to magnificent fjord country, encounter Scandinavia at its best, both on and off the beaten path.Dr. Gail Stevenson will accompany the group adding briefings on energy and the environment as well as political and economic issues. 4-day/3-night Stockholm extension offered.

June 15 - 23, Coastal Life from the Adriatic to the Aegean: Visit five countries and up to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites aboard the 200-guestM.S. LE LYRIAL. Explore Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro, and Albania. Enjoy an exclusive forum with local residents. Maria Wulff will add political commentary on board. Venice Pre-Cruise and Athens Post-Cruise Options. From $3,995 per person plus airfare. Book by November 24 and save $1,000 per person!

July 18 - 25, Alaska's Glaciers and the Inside Passage: Cruise for seven nights from Juneau, Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia, aboard the 220-guest M.S. L’AUSTRAL. Discover an up-close perspective of southeastern Alaska’s natural beauty. An onboard team of naturalists will provide a series of lectures along with other lectures on energy and environmental issues. Five-night Pre-Cruise to Fairbanks and the heart of the great Denali National Park and a Post-Cruise to Vancouver. From $3,995 per person plus airfare.

August 8 - 23, Grand Danube Passage: This very popular tour is back for 2015! Cruise with hotel stays in Sofia and Prague: Begin this with a two-night stay in Sofia and continue with an eight-night cruise of the Danube aboard MS Amadeus Silver. Conclude your adventure with three nights in Prague. Enjoy the splendors of Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. From $4,845 plus airfare. No single supplement special offer- Wait Listed. Book by October 1, 2014 and save $500 per person! Please mention promotion code SAVE107

August 14 – 22, Oxford and the Cotswolds: Savor three nights in a charming hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds and four nights in an historic five-star hotel in Oxford. A highlight will be a specially arranged visit to Highclere Castle, known to millions as Downton Abbey. Accompanying will be Joan Russell, Vice President of Travel, native-born Brit and huge fan of Downton Abbey.Three-night Cambridge Pre-Program and three-night Canterbury Post-Program Options. From $3,595 plus airfare.

August 17 – 28, South Africa: Immerse yourself in South Africa’s fascinating culture and enjoy beautiful scenery from outstanding vineyards, boasting gold medal-winning wines; to magnificent seascapes; to Kruger National Park abounding in ‘Big Five’ wildlife. Additional meet-the-people opportunities and a U.S. Consulate briefing. Accompanying our Council group will be Dr. Carla Thorson.Optional post-tour extension to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

September 17 – October 6, Eastern Europe and Beyond by Private Jet: Enjoy special access to iconic sights, experience distinctive performances and indulge in the culinary delights of Berlin, Moscow, Prague and other centers of Eastern Europe. Enjoy the best available properties at each destination. Traveling with 78 guests aboard a private jet is the only way to experience so many world highlights in one trip!

September 30 – October 8, Treasures of Northern Italy - unpack once in Ferrara: Italy’s Emilia Romagna region is celebrated for its stunning landscape, its array of art and architecture, delectable wines and sumptuous cuisine. Meet-the-people opportunities with special presentations about local history and culture including a visit to a local winery will enrich the tour. $3,245 per person plus airfare. Book by March 3, 2015 and save $500 per person!

October 14 – 25, North Africa Cruise: This voyage aboard the 100-guestCorinthian focuses on the many varied cultures that contribute to the rich cultural history of the region. Travel to Sardinia and explore famed Carthage. Continue to sites in Algeria and Tipasa. Our third Maghreb country is Morocco. Attend lectures by Ambassador Mark Johnson and reflect on the journey before disembarking in Lisbon.

October 21 – November 5, Indonesia - Magical Islands of Java & Bali:Travel to a land with rich traditions, where religion prevails, and the arts thrive. In Bali’s highlands, stay in Ubud with its vibrant market, and participate in cultural workshops. Fly to Yogyakarta, Java, a center for art and visit thousand-year-old temples. Ferry to Bali for beachfront Nusa Dua, and visit the famous sea temple and Denpasar where our Council leader will coordinate a U.S. consular briefing.

October 27 – November 7, Voyage to Antiquity: Athens to Istanbul: Cruise aboard the 70-guest M.Y. VARIETY VOYAGER to Paros and Symi in Greece; Antalya and Bodrum, Turkey for sites of antiquity. In Turkey enjoy a land program in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Council leader Jim Falk will share knowledge of the current political landscape of the region. Athens Pre-Program. From $6,995 per person plus airfare.

February 20 – March 5, Mysteries of Myanmar: Begin in Yangon and fly to Bagan. Travel to Mandalay and Inle Lake. L.J. Stambuk will facilitate briefings with the U.S. Ambassador and with Myanmar experts on this nascent democracy. Optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension to Angkor Wat, Cambodia. $5,898 including air from NY!

February 22 – March 2, Island Life of Cuba: In addition to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Havana, visit Matanzas, Santa Clara, Guanabacoa, Regla and Pinar del Río. Accompanied by experienced Cuban hosts, explore the political history, culture, art, language and cuisine of daily Cuban life. From $5,295 including charter air round-trip Miami/Havana. Book by October 31 and save $500 per person!

March 6 - 14, 2015, Inside Tunisia: Join Craig Snyder, President & CEO World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, to explore Tunisia's road to democracy post-Arab Spring through a series of substantive briefings. Archaeological sightseeing including Carthage and Bardo Museum; El Jem’s Roman amphitheater; and Kairouan’s 7th century Great Mosque. Dougga and Bulia Regia optional extension. $3,750 per person plus airfare.

March 8 – 21, Bangkok to Bali: Discover Bangkok and visit Wat Po. Cruise the Chao Phraya River. Then, travel for three nights aboard the Eastern & Oriental Express Train with a daily excursion off the train. Explore lively Singapore before flying to Bali. Join popular Council leader, Denise Bala, who will arrange a U.S. Embassy. From $6,545 per person plus airfare. Book by November 11 and save $250 per person!

April 6 - 20; May 18 - June 1; or October 5 - 19, Inside Iran: Begin in Tehran, fly to Kerman, continue to Yazd, Shiraz and end in Isfahan. Throughout this program a highlight will be the Iranian people you will meet on your journey and a series of briefings conducted by your Council leader with experts on the contemporary issues of the day. Three departures quickly sold out in 2014!

April 8 – 26, China and Tibet and the Yangtze River: On this distinctive journey start in Beijing and then travel to Xian and Lhasa. Embark on a Yangtze River cruise before ending in Shanghai. Many “meet the people” opportunities and a Council leader will coordinate a briefing at the U.S. Embassy. Optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension in Shanghai.

April 23 – May 1, European Coastal Civilizations with David Eisenhower: Cruise aboard the 200-guest M.S. LE BORÉAL along the coasts of Portugal, Spain, France and Guernsey. David Eisenhower, grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, will share his personal insights during an onboard lecture and accompany you to the beaches of Normandy. Pre-Cruise Option in Lisbon and Post-Cruise Option in Paris and Giverny. From $4,995 per person plus airfare. Book by September 30 and save $1,000 per person!

May 3 – 14, Burgundy and Provence River cruise: During this delightful 12-day journey, a pageant of wine country and picturesque villages entices you on a course through the heart of la belle France. Begin in Monte Carlo before transferring to Arles to board the 138-guest Avalon Scenery. Sail to Avignon, Viviers, Lyon, and Beaune before transferring to your hotel in Paris. Enjoy educational experiences at every stop with Council Leader, Anna Berry. From $3,995 per person plus airfare. Book by November 14 and receive a free expedition library.

May 15 – 23, Bilbao and Madrid: Northern Spain is a must-see destination with arguably the finest food in Spain and world class museums. Start in Bilbao and then drive to the hills of Roja. Spend three days in Madrid to explore not only its legendary museums, plazas, and palaces, but also to experience the city’s diplomatic world. Leading this tour will be Ambassador Heather Hodges.

May 19 – 29, Life Along the Elbe River: Begin with two hotel nights in Berlin where special council briefings will be added. Cruise for seven nights aboard the 88-guest M.S. SWISS RUBY. Explore the Elbe River Valley, from Germany’s “Saxon Switzerland” to Baroque palaces of Dresden and the historic Old Town of Prague. Meet local residents for a personal perspective of the region’s modern life. Dr. Pamela Zeiser will lecture on the cruise. Post-Cruise Option in Prague. Book by November 17 and save $1,000 per person!

June 4 – 13, Baltics Sea Cruise: Experience the Baltic States, on this six-country, eight-night cruise aboard the 200-guest M.S. LE BORÉAL. Hear a keynote presentation by former President of Poland Lech Walesa. On board, and lecturing during the full cruise, will be Dr. Sergei N. Khrushchev, a professor at Brown University and son of Nikita Khrushchev and World Affairs Council of Philadelphia President & CEO, Craig Snyder, who will discuss current political issues of the Baltic states. Begin in Copenhagen and disembark in Stockholm. Norway Pre- Cruise and Stockholm Post-Cruise Options. From $5,995 per person plus airfare. Book by December 4 and save $1,000 per person!

June 11 – 26, Norwegian Splendor: From Copenhagen and Oslo to magnificent fjord country, encounter Scandinavia at its best, both on and off the beaten path.Dr. Gail Stevenson will accompany the group adding briefings on energy and the environment as well as political and economic issues. 4-day/3-night Stockholm extension offered.

June 15 - 23, Coastal Life from the Adriatic to the Aegean: Visit five countries and up to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites aboard the 200-guestM.S. LE LYRIAL. Explore Split, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Montenegro, and Albania. Enjoy an exclusive forum with local residents. Maria Wulff will add political commentary on board. Venice Pre-Cruise and Athens Post-Cruise Options. From $3,995 per person plus airfare. Book by November 24 and save $1,000 per person!

July 18 - 25, Alaska's Glaciers and the Inside Passage: Cruise for seven nights from Juneau, Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia, aboard the 220-guest M.S. L’AUSTRAL. Discover an up-close perspective of southeastern Alaska’s natural beauty. An onboard team of naturalists will provide a series of lectures along with other lectures on energy and environmental issues. Five-night Pre-Cruise to Fairbanks and the heart of the great Denali National Park and a Post-Cruise to Vancouver. From $3,995 per person plus airfare.

August 8 - 23, Grand Danube Passage: This very popular tour is back for 2015! Cruise with hotel stays in Sofia and Prague: Begin this with a two-night stay in Sofia and continue with an eight-night cruise of the Danube aboard MS Amadeus Silver. Conclude your adventure with three nights in Prague. Enjoy the splendors of Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. From $4,845 plus airfare. No single supplement special offer- Wait Listed. Book by October 1, 2014 and save $500 per person! Please mention promotion code SAVE107

August 14 – 22, Oxford and the Cotswolds: Savor three nights in a charming hotel in the heart of the Cotswolds and four nights in an historic five-star hotel in Oxford. A highlight will be a specially arranged visit to Highclere Castle, known to millions as Downton Abbey. Accompanying will be Joan Russell, Vice President of Travel, native-born Brit and huge fan of Downton Abbey.Three-night Cambridge Pre-Program and three-night Canterbury Post-Program Options. From $3,595 plus airfare.

August 17 – 28, South Africa: Immerse yourself in South Africa’s fascinating culture and enjoy beautiful scenery from outstanding vineyards, boasting gold medal-winning wines; to magnificent seascapes; to Kruger National Park abounding in ‘Big Five’ wildlife. Additional meet-the-people opportunities and a U.S. Consulate briefing. Accompanying our Council group will be Dr. Carla Thorson.Optional post-tour extension to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

September 17 – October 6, Eastern Europe and Beyond by Private Jet: Enjoy special access to iconic sights, experience distinctive performances and indulge in the culinary delights of Berlin, Moscow, Prague and other centers of Eastern Europe. Enjoy the best available properties at each destination. Traveling with 78 guests aboard a private jet is the only way to experience so many world highlights in one trip!

September 30 – October 8, Treasures of Northern Italy - unpack once in Ferrara: Italy’s Emilia Romagna region is celebrated for its stunning landscape, its array of art and architecture, delectable wines and sumptuous cuisine. Meet-the-people opportunities with special presentations about local history and culture including a visit to a local winery will enrich the tour. $3,245 per person plus airfare. Book by March 3, 2015 and save $500 per person!

October 14 – 25, North Africa Cruise: This voyage aboard the 100-guestCorinthian focuses on the many varied cultures that contribute to the rich cultural history of the region. Travel to Sardinia and explore famed Carthage. Continue to sites in Algeria and Tipasa. Our third Maghreb country is Morocco. Attend lectures by Ambassador Mark Johnson and reflect on the journey before disembarking in Lisbon.

October 21 – November 5, Indonesia - Magical Islands of Java & Bali:Travel to a land with rich traditions, where religion prevails, and the arts thrive. In Bali’s highlands, stay in Ubud with its vibrant market, and participate in cultural workshops. Fly to Yogyakarta, Java, a center for art and visit thousand-year-old temples. Ferry to Bali for beachfront Nusa Dua, and visit the famous sea temple and Denpasar where our Council leader will coordinate a U.S. consular briefing.

October 27 – November 7, Voyage to Antiquity: Athens to Istanbul: Cruise aboard the 70-guest M.Y. VARIETY VOYAGER to Paros and Symi in Greece; Antalya and Bodrum, Turkey for sites of antiquity. In Turkey enjoy a land program in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Council leader Jim Falk will share knowledge of the current political landscape of the region. Athens Pre-Program. From $6,995 per person plus airfare.